NHRC begins action plan for the protection of human rights in FCT

By Jude Opara

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday began the implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) for the promotion and protection of Human Rights in Nigeria (2024–2028).

In his opening remarks at the occasion, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu who was represented by the Director Legal Services, Mrs. Anwar Rabi said the consultation was convened to assess progress, identify key achievements and challenges, and examine areas requiring strengthened action and collaboration.

He added that the NAP will also serve as a platform for constructive engagement, experience sharing and collective reflection on strategies needed to ensure the effective implementation of the action plan for the advancement of human rights across the country.

“To reiterate, the National Action Plan for the promotion and protection of Human Rights in Nigeria 2024–2028 represents the country’s national human rights framework, developed pursuant to the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action adopted at the World Conference on Human Rights in Vienna, Austria, in 1993.

“The plan translates constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations into concrete, coordinated and measurable actions across lead and cooperating agencies of government in Nigeria.

“It identifies key thematic areas and outlines the objectives, implementation responsibilities, timelines, and performance indicators aimed at strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights in Nigeria”.

Ojukwu added that to ensure credible, robust and effective review of the NAP, the Commission engaged the services of seasoned expert with extensive knowledge and experience in human rights policy, governance, monitoring and evaluation.

In her goodwill message, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim who was represented by Dr. Abia Udeme Nsikak, said the Ministry will continue to work for the development of women and children and the vulnerable in the society.

She thanked the NHRC for all they have been doing to protect the rights of the less privileged in the society, adding that every reasonable society will continue to work for the defence of women and children, who are equally the leaders of tomorrow.